How to Make the Most of Your HGV License When Leaving the Military

Serving the military is surely a very prestigious thing to do. However, when your career comes to an end, it’s time to use your lifelong skills to earn your bread in the civilian world.

Typically, military men tend to apply for jobs in the construction and manufacturing industry. Many people, unfortunately, are not aware of the fact that in the UK, there is a shortage of 60,000 HGV drivers. With HGV licenses and relevant skills attained during their service in the military, ex-military personnel has the tendency to become great HGV drivers in the civil. The HGV industry also seeks such talent.

There are a number of reasons why HGV driving should be the next stop for an ex-military driver.

Excellent Pay:

The basic salary in the UK, for an HGV Class 1 license driver, on average is over £31,000. Highest paying jobs are in London and the East Midlands.

High Demand for HGV Drivers

With a great shortage of HGV drivers in the UK, there are many job prospects for people with the right qualification. Often, employers clearly highlight in the job advertisement, that either they are looking for an ex-military with an HGV Class 1 license holder or they would prefer one.

Have the Required Skills Already

A huge advantage which an ex-military man has over his civilian competitors is that he already has the basic HGV licenses needed to start driving. This also means no added costs to pay.
Possible Financial Assistance
Good news for ex-forces men, looking to apply for HGV driver jobs, is that the Freight Transport Association (FTA) is considering offering financial assistance to those who are planning to get back into work.

Improved Standard of Living

Compared to armed forces service, luckily HGV drivers get to spend more time with their loved ones hence overall they enjoy a better lifestyle.